#which. his reaction to that is……..interesting

[rivereverie]

Just some observations on Astarion learning to see that he is loved

I just saw a clip of Astarion's response to his partner cheating on him with Mizora and it got me thinking. While his entire reaction is very telling and meaningful in its entirety, one line stood out to me:

"I really thought there was more to you. That you were better than other people"

This was striking because it immediately reminded me of something else he says, in the scene after his siblings attempt to capture and return him to Cazador:

"You're the only one. Other people don't have a heart like you. You're you. No one is like that."

These lines feel a little odd at first, because Astarion isn't known for putting the PC on a pedestal. I don't think that's exactly what he's doing here. I think these lines are just capturing the inner chaos and contradiction that naturally come with the gradual unraveling of a long-held worldview. At this point, Astarion is able to process that one person cares for and accepts him, but only one. They must be an outlier: an exception to the rule. Surely they're something special.

Obviously this isn't true, though, and the next step is for him to learn that the PC isn't actually unique in their ability to accept and care for him him. In fact, Astarion is already loved by others and just doesn't see it. This line of his is beautifully contrasted by Karlach's reaction to Astarion's near-abduction. She is righteously angry and protective because she loves Astarion too.

"I dare Cazador to sent more lackeys our way. This is our territory. I'll crack anyone who tries to come into my house and hurt my people."

Earlier in the story, we get a similar moment during the confession scene, showing again how Astarion isn't always able to see the truth of what others feel for him.

When he says this, he sounds surprised. Like the idea of a friend is a revelation. This kind of broke my heart when I first heard it, because I thought it was obvious to him that he already had friends, in both the other companions and my character. But I think a part of him genuinely was stuck in that old thought pattern of assuming that anyone who showed interest in him just wanted to use him. This also makes it clear just how divorced sex is from affection in his mind and experience. Though they've slept together at least several times and grown more emotionally intimate too, Astarion still needs confirmation that the PC actually cares for him.

I made a post once about the two triggers for Astarion's confession here, which further reveal his mindset: going out of your way and into danger to get his scars translated, or choosing not to force him into complying with Araj's dehumanizing demands. Both of these things are concrete demonstrations of respect and care for him and what he wants. Astarion knows very well how empty words can be, so actions are what finally help him believe that the PC cares about him, and gives him the impetus to confess.

Later, If you break up with Astarion, his reaction is extremely telling in that he regresses slightly from this healthier mindset he had developed:

"I can hardly blame you. I don't exactly have much to offer right now, beyond new burdens to carry."

Typically, we witness any traces of Astarion's self-deprecation filtered through irony or dark humor, so his vulnerability in this moment is stark.

He claims that he has very little to offer, but that just isn't true. He may be going through a bit of a crisis, but he is still a shockingly good partner given the circumstances. He is unwaveringly supportive, caring, and clearly tries to lighten his partner's emotional load when they begin to feel the strain of responsibility. Not to mention, just being himself still makes him perfectly worthy of being loved. In any relationship, there will be times when one person needs more support than they themself can give, and that doesn't mean that they aren't enough. We're seeing, yet again, that he sometimes just doesn’t recognize how deeply he is valued by others. At this point, maybe a part of him still feels like he needs to be of service in order to be accepted, let alone loved. I also personally interpret this line as partially concerning his insecurity around not "providing" his partner with sex at this time, reiterating this deeply internalized belief that he needs to perform in order to be valued.

All of these little moments add so much subtly and humanity to his character, and make his development feel natural and earned. The payoff is clear after Cazador's death, when we get to see his new confidence:

He doesn't have to ask "really?" this time.

"You believed in me - believed I was enough just the way I am."

He truly knows now that he is loved.

[thehmn]

I was joking about Kojima doing something freaky with Heartman in Death Stranding 2 but never in my wildest imagination could I have come up with this.

Spoilers below the cut.

This right here has some insane implications for Heartman’s future love life.

Deadman and Sam are this game’s version of Hal and Snake from Metal Gear Solid. In their first game together Hal will ride off into the sunset with Snake if Meryl, the female love interest, dies and in subsequent games Snake and Hal have moved in together and raised a daughter though Snake still has flings with women here and there. Even though they’re never a confirmed couple it’s strongly implied by them living as a family and they get a lot of callbacks to other confirmed couples, including confirmed same-sex couples.

Sam and Deadman aren’t far off. Once they start suspecting that they can’t trust the president Deadman joins Sam in the shower partly to drown out their conversation but he also press Sam up against the wall so it’ll look like they’re having sex. That way no one will wonder why they’re always sneaking off together. But later on they get a much more emotional connection and in a heartfelt scene Deadman puts his hand on baby Lou’s pod as if it was a pregnant belly and basically asks Sam “The three of us, we’re a family, aren’t we?” and by the end they hold Lou together looking exactly like a couple of loving dads. Before they part ways they hold each other tight in a way Sam hasn’t done with anyone else. In the second game Deadman even tells Fragile he knows Sam’s body better than anyone, which is even less subtle than “I know the major better than anyone” from Metal Gear which is considered one of the most explicit confirmations of a gay couple in the franchise.

So Sam is devastated when he learns Deadman died in Death Stranding 2. Deadman plays a cruel joke on Sam by letting him think he can hug him only for Sam to tumble through the holographic message. In Deadman’s defence he didn’t know he’d be dead by then and probably assumed they’d be able to hold each other for real eventually.

He still found a way to return to Sam though. He donated his heart to Heartman who had abused his own heart to the point of breaking it completely. With Deadman and Heartman’s newfound connection Deadman is now able to possess Heartman’s body in the three minutes Heartman dies every 21 minutes and later on they seem to come to an agreement where Deadman can take over Heartman’s body whenever he wants.

Deadman in Heartman’s body lures Sam to a hidden corner where he explains the situation and Sam eagerly throws himself into Deadman’s arms…just in time for Heartman to wake up. Everything about both Sam and Heartman’s reactions tells us this wasn’t an innocent hug. Heartman clearly feels confused and violated so Dollman asks Sam to leave so he can explain the situation to Heartman.

Heartman seems to really think it over because one morning Sam wakes up in Heartman’s lab just as Heartman is coming back to life, suggesting Deadman had a hand in setting the situation up. Heartman sits down uncomfortably close to Sam as if he’s trying to tell him something. They talk about the state of the world for a bit before Heartman tells Sam that he too is in love with a woman, The Hydrologist, who lives in his lab and who has build a hotspring for Heartman, comparing the hotspring to love and making love. He then tells Sam that he can use his hotspring whenever he wants. No prices for guessing what he means.

We don’t know if Sam takes him up on the offer but Heartman basically told him “I’m okay with the three of you sharing my body” The Hydrologist even calls Heartman “our shared friend” whenever she talks to Sam. Just wild Kojima.

[godoreo22]

Saja boys x Manager reader: Part 2

Fake it till you make it

(Name) is ushered into the apartment by the group of guys.

"Whoa." (Name) gapes as they take in the lavish home. Flat screen TV mounted on the walk plush couches in the living room, white marble counter in the kitchen and a fountain in the middle of the foyer because why not?

"I'd have to sell every organ in my body to even afford one of those couches." (Name) sits on one and melts into the soft material as if they were sitting on a cloud.

"Well we're glad you like it." The sweet husky voice of who (Name) assumed was the leader coaxed her out of her relaxation. (Name) straightens and stands up. "RIGHT yes this is still a job interview technically."

"Hello my name is (Name), i am here the the manager position, but you all already knew that." (Name) stammers a bit with a deep bow.

All five of the beautiful men smirk.

"Oh they're adorable" said the one with with long pink hair causing the rest of them to chuckle and murmur in agreement

"You've already got the job baby" The one with their eyes covered says while holding their chin. (Name) can practically feel their brain buffering. They take and a big step back and takes a deep breath to calm they haywire nerves and burning face.

"That's amazing but we need to keep a professional relationship... mainly for my sanity." (Name) mumbles the last bit but plasters a large smile.

All the boys look at each other a little surprised at the swift shut down but each of them have a challenging look on their faces.

"Alright Boss, no more funny business." Said the one with long pink hair says with a flirtatious smile.

"Right... So this manager job, i assume you're all a boyband?" (Name) inquires.

"You assume right, I'm Jinu" Said the one with dark hair and deep eyes. "This is Romance." He gestures to the one with long pink haired boy who blows them a kiss at that forms a heart that actually flies.

"Interesting..." (Name) notes watching it before focusing back on the others introductions.

"That's Abby." The boy with a chiseled jaw line flexes causing his shirt to stretch and his abs to become exposed. (Name) pupils dilate as they stare at his magnificent physique, imagining how it feels to lick them like a glazed doughnut. They take a deep breath and pinch their side hard to steel themselves.

"Mhm" Abby chuckles a their reaction and relaxes.

"Mystery." (Name) looks at the boy with long silver hair who gives them a small smile and a nod of acknowledgement which (Name) returns

"And finally, baby." (Name) looks at the last boy with an adorable face and a cute smile "What's up girl?" Only for his deep voice to completely catch her off guard.

"Hmm well you're all... unique individuals. Definitely boyband esque." (Name) nod in thought. "So i assume you all your roles."

"Yup, I'm lead singer, Abby is on choreo, Baby is the wrapper, Mystery is the lyricist, and Romance is the vocalist." Jinu says which makes (Name) sigh in relief. Less work.

"Ok great well first your gonna need a debut, put your name out there." (Name) starts pacing with a purpose.

"We gotta deal with booking a venue, Instruments, choreography." (Name) starts the drone now feeling like they've trained their whole life for this.

'Cute.' All the boys think in unison.

"Whoa whoa Boss calm down, let us get to know know you first." Romance wraps their arm around (Name)'s shoulder.

"I don't know, I'm sure there is so much we have to get to for the debut." (Name) squeaks out as they feel heat rise in them. "Come on, we're gonna be spending a lot of time together, might as well."Baby adds getting closer to them.

"Whoa you just kinda popped up outta no where." (Name) chuckles nervously before gasping loudly.

"I have the perfect idea for your debut."

UGH i wanted to get this out like yesterday but i fractured my knee on top of getting braces again because i have some rare teeth condition. I'm just out of it kinda but i have my computer so i will continue to type.

Taglist: @imaginarydreams @sparky2020sworld @strayharmony943 @lysira340 @crescent-z

[lila-lou]

✨Twenty-One - 1/4✨

Summary: You thought this trip was just a chance to unwind — until the door opened and Jensen Ackles was standing there, larger than life and way too real. Now you're spending your birthday week in his house, trying not to lose your mind over your childhood crush who, somehow, keeps looking at you like you’re not just some kid anymore.

-requested-

Pairing: Jensen x Reader

Warnings: Language, kinda immoral

Word Count: 6636

DISCLAIMER: Everything is purely fiction. I do not intend to attack or hurt anyone. The story is, of course, entirely made up and meant for entertainment purposes. I love them all.

AJ grinned as she rang the doorbell, clearly excited about your reaction to this trip. You, on the other hand, felt your stomach twist into knots. It wasn’t every day you were about to meet Jensen Ackles—a man you had grown up admiring, crushing on, and now, somehow, about to spend time with in the flesh.

The door swung open faster than you expected, and there he was.

Jensen Ackles stood in the doorway, casual yet effortlessly attractive in a plain t-shirt and jeans, his green eyes warm but curious as they landed on you. His light brown hair was slightly messy, like he’d just run his hand through it.

“Hey, kiddo”, he greeted AJ with a grin, pulling her into a quick hug before turning his attention to you. “And you must be Y/N. Heard a lot about you”.

Your brain short-circuited for a second. He heard about you? You barely managed to return his smile without looking like a total idiot.

“Uh—yeah. That’s me. Y/N”, you said awkwardly, cursing yourself immediately for sounding like a socially inept robot.

AJ laughed and nudged your side. “She’s just nervous. Big fan and all”.

Your eyes widened as you turned to glare at her, mentally screaming. She wasn’t supposed to say that! That was the last thing you wanted him to know.

Jensen chuckled, crossing his arms over his broad chest. “Oh yeah?”, he teased, clearly amused. “Supernatural fan?”.

You swallowed hard. “Uhm—yeah. I mean—kinda”.

His smirk deepened, and you knew he knew. “Well, that’s good. At least you won’t be completely freaked out staying here for the week”.

You blinked. Wait, what?

AJ turned to you with a wide grin. “Yeah, forgot to mention that part. We´re staying here. Dad’s got plenty of space, and this way, we don’t have to waste money on a hotel”.

Your mouth went dry. A whole week… in Jensen Ackles’ house?

Jensen patted your shoulder lightly, the simple touch making your skin tingle. “Make yourself at home, Y/N”, he said, his voice smooth and warm. “It’s gonna be fun”.

And just like that, your already dangerous crush on him? It just got a hundred times worse.

As AJ disappeared into the kitchen, already rummaging through the fridge like she owned the place—which, to be fair, she kind of did—you found yourself alone with Jensen.

He smiled down at you, his green eyes studying you with an easy warmth. “So, you and AJ met at the shelter, huh?”, he asked, leading you through the house at a relaxed pace.

You nodded, still feeling slightly on edge just being here. “Yeah, about a year ago. I worked there while studying, and AJ came in for her internship”.

Jensen chuckled, shaking his head fondly. “That sounds like her. Always wanting to do a little bit of everything”. His voice was deep and smooth, the kind of voice that could make reading a grocery list sound interesting.

“Yeah”, you agreed softly. “She’s… definitely a lot more outgoing than me”.

He glanced at you, his expression turning thoughtful. “Not a bad thing”, he said, stopping at the base of the staircase. “Sometimes, the quiet ones have the most to say. Just takes the right person to listen”.

Your stomach flipped at his words. Did he just say something that deep… about you? Before you could even think of a response, he motioned toward the stairs. “Let me show you where you’ll be staying”.

You followed him up, trying your best not to let your eyes wander, except that was nearly impossible. The man was built like a damn Greek god. Broad shoulders, muscular back, those strong arms… it should’ve been illegal for someone to look that good in just a t-shirt.

“This is you”, Jensen said, pushing open a door at the end of the hall. The room was spacious but cozy, with a queen-sized bed, a soft gray comforter, and a window that overlooked the backyard.

“Wow”, you breathed, stepping inside. “This is… really nice”.

Jensen leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed over his chest. “Good. I want you to feel comfortable here. And if AJ gets too annoying, you can always escape in here”.

You smiled at that, your nerves easing slightly. “Thanks. That’s… really nice of you”.

He tilted his head, watching you. “It’s your birthday tomorrow, right?”.

Your eyes widened slightly. “Uh—yeah. How’d you know?”.

Jensen smirked. “AJ’s been talking about it for weeks”. He pushed off the doorframe, his presence effortlessly commanding even in such a relaxed stance. “We’ll have to do something special”.

Your heart skipped a beat. Jensen Ackles wanted to do something for your birthday?

Before you could embarrass yourself by overthinking, AJ’s voice called from downstairs. “Dad! You seriously have nothing good to eat! What kind of house is this?”.

Jensen sighed, shaking his head as he turned. “Guess I need to feed the gremlin before she starves”.

You let out a soft laugh, watching as he walked away. As soon as he was gone, you flopped onto the bed, face-first, groaning into the pillow.

A whole week here. With him. You were so screwed.

You had barely kicked off your shoes and sat up when Jensen’s deep voice echoed from downstairs. “Y/N! What do you want to eat?”.

Your brain short-circuited for a second. He was asking you? Like, personally? Not just assuming you’d go along with whatever AJ wanted?

You scrambled to the doorway, hesitating before calling back, “Uh—whatever’s fine! I’m not picky!”.

There was a pause, then his voice came again, closer this time. “That’s not an answer, kid”.

Your stomach flipped at the nickname. Not that it was unusual, he probably called people around AJ´s age “kid” all the time, but coming from him? It did something to you.

You took a deep breath, stepping out of your room and heading toward the stairs. “Um… pizza?”.

Jensen appeared at the bottom of the staircase, looking up at you with an amused smirk. “There. Was that so hard?”.

Your face burned as you shrugged. “I just—didn’t want to be a bother”.

He scoffed. “You’re staying in my house, Y/N. You better tell me what you want to eat. I don’t need you passing out on me”.

AJ suddenly popped out from behind him, a bag of chips in hand. “Yeah, trust me, Dad. Y/N gets all quiet when she’s hungry. It’s creepy”.

You rolled your eyes. “I do not”.

“She totally does”, AJ confirmed, shoving a chip in her mouth. “She’s like a little sad puppy until she eats”.

Jensen chuckled, shaking his head as he pulled his phone out. “Alright, pizza it is. Any topping requests?”.

You hesitated for half a second, but AJ was already answering for you. “She loves pepperoni and extra cheese”.

Jensen raised an eyebrow, glancing at you. “That true?”.

You nodded, feeling oddly exposed by how well AJ knew you. “Yeah”.

Jensen grinned, nodding as he scrolled on his phone. “Good choice. You and I are gonna get along just fine, Y/N”.

You swallowed hard at that, ignoring the way your heart did a weird little flip. Get it together. He was just being nice. Like a dad.

AJ, of course, wasn’t about to let you off the hook. “She’s also a total freak about garlic bread”.

Jensen looked up, amused. “Oh yeah?”.

AJ nodded, grinning like she had just exposed your deepest secret. “Like, I swear she’d marry a loaf of it if she could”.

You groaned, covering your face. “AJ, shut up”.

Jensen just chuckled, already adding it to the order. “Alright, garlic bread for the birthday girl”.

Your stomach twisted. Oh. Right. He knew.

It wasn’t that you hated birthdays, but growing up, they were never big for you. No extravagant parties, no expensive gifts, just a simple cake, maybe a dinner if money allowed. So hearing Jensen Ackles, the man you had crushed on for years, say it so casually? It felt… weird.

Nice. But weird.

“AJ mentioned you’re turning 21”, Jensen said, locking his phone and glancing at you. “Big milestone. We should do something fun”.

AJ perked up. “Oh! Can we take her out?”.

You froze. “Wait, what?”.

AJ turned to you, practically vibrating with excitement. “Dude, it’s your 21st birthday. We have to do something! A bar, a club, something!”.

Jensen smirked, crossing his arms. “You’re still eighteen, AJ. You’re not going anywhere”.

AJ groaned dramatically. “Ugh, technicalities”.

You, on the other hand, were too focused on the part where Jensen was apparently planning your birthday now. “I—I don’t know”, you stammered, suddenly nervous. “I hadn’t really planned anything. It’s not a big deal”.

Jensen scoffed. “Yeah, not happening. You only turn 21 once”.

AJ gasped, her eyes lighting up. “Ooooh, Dad, you should take her out!”.

Your entire body went stiff. “What?!”.

Jensen just raised an eyebrow at his daughter’s enthusiasm. “Uh…”.

AJ clapped her hands together, already hyping herself up. “Yes! Think about it. You know all the cool places, she’s never been to LA before, and she needs to live a little! It’s perfect”.

You opened your mouth to protest, because what the hell was she even suggesting?!, but Jensen only chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “Well… guess I don’t mind playing chaperone for the night”.

AJ grinned at you. “See? Perfect”.

You stared at her, absolutely betrayed. “AJ, what are you doing?”, you whispered, mentally panicking.

She just smirked. “Giving you the best birthday ever, duh”.

Jensen stretched, cracking his neck. “Alright, pizza should be here soon. You two go set the table or something”.

You barely registered his words. Your brain was too busy spiraling. Because tomorrow night? You were going out. With Jensen Ackles.

You grabbed a couple of napkins, setting them next to the paper plates while AJ plopped down on the couch, watching you with a mischievous grin. “We need to doll you up”, she declared, tossing a napkin onto the table.

You groaned, already knowing where this was going. “AJ—”

“I’m serious!”, she cut in, sitting up and pointing at you. “You’re so pretty, but you always dress so… lamely”.

Your face heated up. “I do not”.

AJ gave you a look. “Y/N, I love you, but your entire wardrobe is, like, neutral colors and jeans. Do you even own a dress?”.

You hesitated. “…Maybe”.

AJ gasped dramatically. “Oh my God, maybe?!”.

You rolled your eyes, trying not to smile. “Not all of us have unlimited shopping sprees, AJ”.

She waved a hand dismissively. “Money has nothing to do with it! You just need to, like… embrace your hotness”.

You nearly choked. “Excuse me?”.

AJ grinned. “Dude, you’re gorgeous. But you hide behind all these boring clothes and oversized hoodies”. She wiggled her eyebrows. “And since you’re spending your birthday night out with my dad, we need to upgrade your look”.

You froze. “AJ, it’s not like that—”.

“Oh, please”, She smirked. “Dad’s gonna be in full ‘protective mode’, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look hot”.

Your face felt like it was on fire. “AJ, I am not dressing up just to—”.

“Too late”, she sang, already pulling out her phone. “We’re raiding my closet after dinner. I have so many things that’ll look amazing on you”.

You sighed, knowing there was no way out of this. “You’re really set on this, huh?”.

AJ grinned. “Absolutely”.

Before you could protest again, the doorbell rang.

“Pizza’s here!”, Jensen’s voice came from the hallway.

AJ clapped her hands, jumping up. “Saved by the pizza. But don’t think I’m letting this go”.

You groaned, running a hand down your face as she skipped off to the door. Tomorrow night was going to be a disaster.

Dinner had been surprisingly easygoing. A lot of small talk, mostly AJ dominating the conversation while you and Jensen occasionally chimed in. He was easy to talk to—casual, funny, even a little sarcastic—but still, every time he looked at you, you felt hyperaware of yourself. Like he could see right through your nervous energy.

But then, once the pizza was mostly gone, Jensen leaned back in his chair, stretching a little before fixing you with a serious look. “Alright, birthday girl”, he started, “if we’re going out tomorrow, we gotta set some ground rules”.

You straightened slightly, feeling weirdly like a teenager getting lectured by a parent. “Rules?”.

Jensen nodded. “Yeah. First off, no posting about it online. I’m not super hounded by paparazzi, but I also don’t need some rando snapping pics of me in a club with a 21-year-old and spinning it into some weird-ass headline”.

That… made sense. You hadn’t even thought about that. You nodded. “Yeah, of course”.

“Second”, he continued, taking a sip of his beer, “I’m picking the club. I know a few spots that are discreet. Last thing you need is to deal with a bunch of drunk superfans losing their minds because they recognize me”.

You swallowed. Right. Because he was Jensen freaking Ackles. Just because he was so casual about it didn’t change the fact that millions of people worshipped him.

“And third…”. He hesitated for a second, then smirked slightly. “Look, I know you’re young, but just—don’t do anything stupid. Don’t disappear, don’t take drinks from strangers, and for the love of God, don’t hook up with some dude in the club bathroom”.

You nearly choked on your drink. “Jensen!”.

AJ screamed from across the couch, doubling over in laughter. “OH MY GOSH. AS IF”, She was gasping between giggles. “Dad, she’s—she’s the biggest virgin ever”.

Your eyes widened in horror. “AJ, what the hell?!”.

Jensen, to his credit, just raised an eyebrow, looking highly amused. “That so?”, he mused, taking another sip of beer.

You covered your face with both hands. This was not happening.

AJ was still cackling. “I swear! She’s like, scared of flirting. It’s adorable”.

You groaned, wanting to sink into the floor. “Oh my God, can we not talk about this?”.

Jensen smirked. “Alright, alright. No judgment, kid”.

The way he said it, so damn casually, made your stomach do something stupid. Like he wasn’t laughing at you, just… observing.

AJ wiped tears from her eyes, still giggling. “I love this. This is the best day ever”.

You glared at her. “You’re the worst”.

She just grinned. “And yet, you love me”.

Jensen shook his head, still looking entertained. “Alright, enough embarrassing Y/N for one night”. He pushed up from his chair, stretching. “I’m heading to bed. You two don’t stay up all night”.

AJ saluted dramatically. “Yes, Dad”.

You were still burning with embarrassment as Jensen walked past, clapping your shoulder lightly. “Don’t let her bully you too much, kid”. And with that, he was gone, leaving you a mess on the couch while AJ kept laughing.

The next day passed in a blur. You had tried to distract yourself, watching movies with AJ, helping clean up the kitchen, and avoiding thinking too hard about the fact that tonight, you’d be going out with Jensen.

But, of course, AJ had other plans. “Alright, birthday girl”, she announced, throwing open her closet doors dramatically. “Time for your transformation”.

You sighed, standing near the doorway. “I don’t need a transformation, AJ”.

She turned to you, hands on her hips, like a mom about to scold her child. “Yes, you do. You’re turning twenty-one. You’re going out for the first time. You are not—I repeat, NOT—going in your usual boring outfit”.

You huffed. “It’s not boring. It’s just comfortable”.

AJ gave you a look. “We are not prioritizing comfort tonight. We are prioritizing hotness”.

You groaned. “AJ…”.

She ignored you, already digging through hangers, tossing options onto her bed. “We need something sexy but not too much. Hot, but classy. Like… ‘Oops, I didn’t mean to be this attractive, but here we are’”.

You rolled your eyes. “That’s… weirdly specific”.

AJ gasped suddenly, pulling out a sleek, form-fitting black dress. “This. This is it”.

Your eyes widened. “AJ, that’s… tiny”.

She scoffed. “It’s not tiny, it’s perfect. Try it on”.

You hesitated, but one look at AJ’s dead serious expression told you there was no way out of this. Fine. You grabbed the dress and disappeared into the bathroom. When you slipped it on, you barely recognized yourself. It hugged your body in all the right ways, the hem stopping mid-thigh, the neckline just low enough to be dangerous. You stared at your reflection, heart pounding. Was this really you?

“Are you done yet?!”, AJ’s voice called impatiently.

Taking a deep breath, you stepped out.

AJ’s jaw dropped. “FUCKING. SHIT”.

Your face burned. “It’s too much, isn’t it?”.

AJ shook her head so fast you thought she might get whiplash. “Too much?! No, this is—this is perfect. Like, I almost want to cry. My little Y/N is finally embracing her hotness”.

You groaned. “Please stop talking”.

She ignored you, circling around like she was inspecting her masterpiece. “You’ve been hiding this under your oversized hoodies all this time?”. She gasped.

Before you could argue, a knock sounded on the bedroom door. Jensen’s voice came through. “You two ready yet?”.

Your stomach twisted into a knot at the sound of Jensen’s voice. Ready? That was debatable. AJ, of course, had no hesitation. She threw open the door, revealing Jensen standing in the hallway, dressed in a fitted black button-up with the sleeves rolled up just enough to ruin your life.

His gaze landed on you—and froze.

For the briefest second, you swore you saw his breath hitch. His eyes flickered down, taking in the dress, the way it hugged your figure, and then just as quickly, he cleared his throat, looking away.

“Well, damn”, he muttered, scratching the back of his neck. “You clean up nice”.

You swallowed, forcing yourself to act normal. “Uh… thanks”.

AJ, meanwhile, was beaming like she had just won the lottery. “Told you she looked hot”.

Jensen shot her a look. “Alright, that’s enough”.

AJ just laughed, linking her arm with yours and dragging you down the hallway. “Come on, let’s eat. You can’t party on an empty stomach”.

Dinner was surprisingly… nice.

Jensen took you both to a quiet restaurant, low lighting, a cozy atmosphere, nothing too fancy, but still nice. AJ did most of the talking (as always), but you couldn’t help but notice the way Jensen would glance at you every now and then.

Little things—making sure you liked your food, refilling your drink before you even realized it was low. It wasn’t anything obvious, but it made your stomach flutter all the same.

When dinner wrapped up, Jensen tossed his credit card on the table before you or AJ could even pretend to argue.

AJ stretched dramatically. “Alright, time to go. Birthday girl has a club to get to”. You paused. Right. The plan. Jensen was dropping AJ off at home first, then… then it was just you and him. Alone. In a club.

By the time you pulled up to AJ’s house, she was already half-asleep in the backseat.

Jensen shifted the car into park and looked back at her. “Alright, kiddo, inside you go”.

AJ blinked groggily. “Ugh. Fine”. Then she turned to you, smirking just enough to let you know she was still AJ. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do”.

You rolled your eyes. “Which is…?”.

She grinned. “Nothing. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do”.

Jensen groaned. “Out. Now”.

AJ laughed, hopping out of the car. “Love you both! Don’t be lame!”.

And just like that, it was just you and Jensen. The car was suddenly too quiet.

Jensen exhaled, gripping the wheel for a second before looking over at you. “You ready for this?”.

You nodded, though your heart was pounding. “Yeah. You?”.

He smirked, shifting the car into drive. “Let’s find out”.

The drive to the club was quiet, but not exactly uncomfortable. Just… charged.

Jensen had one hand on the wheel, his other resting casually on the gear shift, his fingers tapping lightly as he drove. The streetlights cast quick flashes of gold across his face, highlighting his sharp jawline, the slight crease in his brow.

You, on the other hand, were trying not to lose your mind.

It wasn’t like this was a date, not even close, but the fact that you were alone with Jensen Ackles, dressed like this, going out for your birthday… it felt like something you shouldn’t even allow yourself to overthink.

But, of course, you were overthinking it anyway. After a moment, Jensen glanced over at you. “You good?”.

You nodded quickly. “Yeah. Just… haven’t really done this before”.

He smirked, eyes flicking back to the road. “First time clubbing?”.

You exhaled. “Yeah. Not exactly my scene”.

Jensen let out a soft chuckle. “Yeah, figured as much”.

You frowned. “What’s that supposed to mean?”.

He shrugged, lips twitching. “You just seem… more like the ‘cozy night in’ type. Movie marathons, takeout, that kind of thing”.

Your heart skipped. He had known you for barely two days and somehow already had you pegged. “…Not wrong”, you muttered, crossing your arms.

Jensen smirked. “Don’t worry, kid. I’ll make sure you survive”.

You swallowed. Kid. That damn nickname. You weren’t sure why it bothered you tonight. Maybe because you didn’t feel like a kid. Not in this dress, not sitting next to him like this, not with the way his voice sounded so smooth and effortless.

You needed a distraction. “So, why are you even doing this?”, you asked, shifting in your seat. “Taking me out, I mean”.

Jensen hummed, considering for a moment. “Well, AJ was very insistent”.

You huffed. “Yeah, that sounds like her”.

He glanced at you again. “And… you only turn twenty-one once. Figured you deserved a proper night out”.

Something about the way he said it—calm, certain—sent a shiver down your spine.

You bit the inside of your cheek. “You do this often?”.

Jensen chuckled. “What, take barely legal girls to clubs?”.

Your face burned. “Oh my God—that’s not what I meant”.

He just laughed, shaking his head. “Relax, kid. I know”. Then, after a beat, he added, “And no. Haven’t really gone out much lately. Not my scene either, honestly”.

That surprised you. “Then why—?”.

He smirked. “Told you. Birthday rule. Plus, if I don’t do it, AJ will never let me hear the end of it”.

You let out a breathy laugh, shaking your head. “She really does have you wrapped around her finger”.

Jensen sighed dramatically. “Tell me about it”.

The car slowed as he pulled onto a side street, the bright neon lights of the club flickering in the distance. He put the car in park, then turned to you, his expression suddenly more serious.

“Alright, some more ground rules”.

You straightened, nodding. “Okay”.

Jensen held up a finger. “One—stay where I can see you. I’m not dealing with you disappearing on me”.

You swallowed. “Got it”.

“Two—if any guy gives you trouble, you come find me”.

Your breath caught slightly. “Uh… okay”.

“And three—”. He leaned back, giving you a smirk. “Try to have some fun”.

You exhaled a laugh. “I’ll… do my best”.

Jensen grinned, then unbuckled his seatbelt. “Let’s go, birthday girl”.

Your stomach twisted as you stepped out of the car, the music from inside the club already thumping through the pavement. You weren’t sure if it was the nerves or the excitement making your heart race. But either way… there was no turning back now.

The bass from the club pulsed through the pavement as you followed Jensen toward the entrance. The neon lights cast an electric glow over everything, and for a moment, you wondered what the hell you were doing.

This wasn’t your scene. Not even close. But somehow, being here with him made it feel a little less terrifying.

Jensen walked up to the bouncer like he’d done this a hundred times before. The guy at the door barely glanced at him before unhooking the velvet rope. “Good to see you again, man”, the bouncer said, nodding.

Jensen smirked. “Appreciate it”.

You blinked. Wait.

“You know the bouncer?”, you asked as you followed him inside.

Jensen shrugged. “Told you, I picked a place that’s… familiar”.

You stared at him. “What does that even mean?”.

But Jensen just grinned. “Come on, let’s get a drink”.

The club was packed. Music blasted from the speakers, the air thick with heat and the scent of alcohol. Colorful strobe lights cut through the haze, illuminating the crowd of bodies moving in sync with the beat. Jensen led you through the mass of people, his hand hovering near the small of your back—not touching, but just close enough that you felt completely hyper-aware of his presence.

When you reached the bar, he turned to you. “What’s your poison?”.

You hesitated. “Uh… I don’t really know”.

Jensen chuckled, shaking his head. “Right. First time and all”. He turned to the bartender. “Two whiskey sours”.

Your brows lifted. “Oh, we’re starting with whiskey?”.

Jensen smirked. “Trust me”.

The drinks arrived quickly. You took a cautious sip, the mix of citrus and smooth burn of whiskey hitting your tongue. “Okay”, you admitted. “Not bad”.

Jensen raised his glass. “Happy birthday, kid”.

You huffed. “Still with the ‘kid’ thing?”.

He smirked, taking a sip. “Force of habit”.

You rolled your eyes but clinked your glass against his anyway. As you drank, you let yourself take it all in. The music, the lights, the fact that you were here, in a club, drinking with Jensen Ackles. The absurdity of it all made you laugh under your breath.

Jensen arched a brow. “What?”.

You shook your head, smiling. “Just… this isn’t how I thought I’d spend my twenty-first birthday”.

Jensen leaned against the bar, smirking. “Better or worse?”.

Your stomach flipped. You licked your lips, setting your drink down. “Still deciding”.

He chuckled. “Well, we’ve got the whole night. Let’s see if I can change your mind”.

Before you could respond, the music shifted—something fast, infectious.

Jensen tilted his head toward the dance floor. “You gonna dance?”.

Your eyes widened. “Oh, uh… I don’t really—”.

“Bullshit”. He smirked. “Come on. Let’s see what you got”.

Your pulse skyrocketed. “Wait—you mean… with you?”.

Jensen just grinned and held out a hand. You stared at it, heart hammering. This was so not a good idea. And yet… You took his hand.

Jensen’s hand was warm, his grip firm but easy, like this wasn’t a big deal. Like he wasn’t dragging you onto the dance floor in the middle of a crowded club. Your brain screamed at you to protest, to tell him you weren’t much of a dancer, that this was dangerous territory.

But you didn’t. Because the second he pulled you into the crowd, the music swallowed you whole. The bass thrummed through your chest, the lights flashing in shades of blue and red, bodies moving all around you in time with the rhythm. You barely had time to catch your breath before Jensen turned to face you, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

“Relax”, he said over the music. “It’s just dancing”.

Just dancing. You exhaled sharply, trying to convince yourself of that. But then Jensen moved. He didn’t go all-in right away. Just a casual sway, easy and effortless, his body rolling with the beat like it was second nature. His hands stayed at his sides, giving you space, but his eyes? They were right on you. He was watching. Waiting.

Your pulse skyrocketed. Okay. Fine. You could do this. You started slow, mirroring his movements, testing the rhythm. It wasn’t that you couldn’t dance, it was just that you never had, at least not like this. Not with him.

Jensen grinned when he saw you loosen up. “There you go”.

The music picked up, and without thinking, you let your body move. The alcohol in your system helped, making you just a little bolder, a little less aware of your own awkwardness.

And then, Jensen stepped closer. Not too close. Not inappropriate. But close enough. Close enough that when the beat dropped, and you turned slightly, his hand found your waist, just for a second, just barely there. Your breath hitched.

He leaned in, his voice low, just above your ear. “See? Not so bad”.

You swallowed. “Not bad”, you managed, but it didn’t sound nearly as casual as you wanted it to.

Jensen smirked, his fingers brushing your waist again, so light, so subtle, you almost could have imagined it. But you didn’t. Because when your eyes met his, there was something different there. Something that made your whole body hum with awareness.

The song shifted again, something slower, heavier. Jensen didn’t move away. Neither did you. And just like that, the air between you changed. It was no longer just dancing. It was something else. Something neither of you had expected.

Your pulse was out of control. You barely thought as you grabbed your drink, tipping it back in one go, the alcohol burning its way down your throat.

Jensen watched, his smirk deepening. “Damn, kid”.

You ignored the way that nickname made your stomach flip, setting the empty glass onto the nearest table. When you turned back, Jensen was still right there, his green eyes glinting under the flashing club lights.

Then, before you could process what was happening, he reached for your hand. And spun you. A quick, fluid motion—his fingers barely grazing yours—until suddenly, your back was against his chest.

He wasn’t touching you—not fully—but he was close. Close enough that you felt the heat of him, the warmth of his breath as it fanned across your shoulder.

And now? Now, you were really dancing.

The beat pulsed through your veins, your body moving with the rhythm. The hesitation you’d had before? Gone. The alcohol, the music, the way Jensen’s presence wrapped around you like a second skin, it was all too much, and at the same time, not enough.

You let your hands lift slightly, swaying to the beat, and that’s when it happened. Jensen’s fingers, just barely, brushed against your hip. It wasn’t much. The lightest touch. But it sent a sharp jolt through your spine.

You swallowed hard, hyper-aware of him now. The way his body moved so easily behind you. The way he still wasn’t touching you fully, like he was waiting. Testing. Like he was seeing how far this could go.

And you? You weren’t stopping him.

Another beat, another sway. His fingers pressed—firmer, deliberate—just at the curve of your hip. Your stomach tightened.

“Still with me?”. His voice was low, rough, right against your ear.

Your breath stuttered. “Yeah”.

Jensen hummed, a sound that rumbled through your back. “Good”.

You didn’t know how long you danced. Didn’t care. Because for the first time in your life, you weren’t overthinking. You were just feeling. And damn, did it feel good.

Hours had passed in a blur of music, lights, and the heat of Jensen’s presence. You had danced longer than you ever thought possible, had another drink (or two, who was counting?), and somewhere along the way, you had lost every ounce of hesitation.

Now, however, reality was hitting you all at once.

You weren’t wasted, but you were definitely buzzed—that loose, giggly kind of drunk that made the world tilt just slightly when you walked.

And Jensen? He was handling you. Not in an overbearing way. Not in a “let’s go, you’re done” way.

No. He was calm. Collected. Like this wasn’t the first time he had to lead a tipsy twenty-one-year-old out of a club.

His hand rested firmly at your lower back as he guided you through the crowd, his grip steady whenever you swayed too much. “You’re lucky you’re a fun drunk”, he murmured as he pulled open the club’s side door, letting in the crisp night air.

You giggled, feeling way too warm. “What’s a not fun drunk?”.

Jensen smirked, keeping his pace slow as you walked toward the parking lot. “The crying ones. The aggressive ones. The ones who throw up in my car”.

You gasped dramatically. “I would never”.

Jensen huffed a laugh, unlocking the car. “Yeah, well, let’s keep it that way”.

You felt light. Giddy. Like this whole night was floating around you in some hazy, surreal dream. When you reached the passenger door, you turned, swaying slightly. “You know…”, you started, tilting your head. “You’re really good at this”.

Jensen raised an eyebrow, amused. “At what?”.

You blinked slowly, trying to find your words. “Taking care of people”.

His smirk softened just a little. “Comes with the territory”.

You hummed. “Yeah… you’re like… a responsible, sexy bodyguard”.

Jensen froze. Your own brain stalled. Did you—did you just say that out loud? A beat of silence.

Then, Jensen smirked. “Sexy, huh?”.

Oh. My. God. You slapped a hand over your mouth, eyes wide. “Forget that. That wasn’t—that was nothing—”.

Jensen laughed. Like, full-on laughed. “Alright, lightweight, let’s get you in the car before you start confessing more things”, he teased, opening the passenger door.

You groaned, hiding your face. “I hate myself”.

Jensen nudged you toward the seat, still smirking. “Don’t worry, kid. I’ll let that one slide”.

You huffed as you slid into the car, your face on fire. Jensen shut the door, walking around to the driver’s side. You exhaled deeply. You needed sleep. Water. A new identity, maybe. Because fucking shit. You just called him sexy.

The second Jensen started driving, you knew you were in trouble. Your head was still spinning, your body warm from the alcohol, the dancing, and—let’s be honest—him.

You couldn’t just sit here in awkward silence after what you’d said. You had to fix it. “I just meant”, you started, turning toward him in the dim glow of the dashboard lights, “you’re, like, objectively attractive”.

Jensen’s fingers tightened around the steering wheel. Oh no.

“Like—like, obviously. People would agree”, you continued, rambling. “You’ve got, you know, the whole… thing going on”.

He raised an eyebrow. “The thing?”.

You gestured vaguely. “Yeah. The voice, the muscles, the face. You know”.

Jensen exhaled sharply through his nose. “Shit, (Y/N)”.

You panicked. “But not, like, in a weird way! I just mean you’re, like… manly. Like, rugged. You’ve got that whole strong, protective, could-break-someone-in-half vibe”.

Jensen’s jaw flexed. His grip on the wheel went white-knuckle tight. You were making this worse. You gulped. “Like—not that I’d want to be broken in half, obviously—”.

Jensen let out a rough breath, shifting slightly in his seat. You had no idea that your innocent, drunk little rant was currently making his dick twitch. But it was. Because all he could think about now was you—dressed like that, pressed against him on the dance floor, moving without hesitation. And now, sitting in his car, talking like this. About him.

His jaw was tight. “Y/N”.

You perked up. “Yeah?”.

Jensen huffed. “Stop talking”.

Your mouth snapped shut. For a second, you swore the air in the car felt different. Heavy. Charged. You glanced at him, blinking. “Did I—did I say something wrong?”.

Jensen exhaled sharply, rubbing a hand over his jaw. “No. You just… need to stop before you dig yourself in deeper”.

The rest of the drive was tense, but not because of any argument or discomfort. No, the tension was something else. Something thicker, heavier. Something Jensen should not have been feeling.

You sat there, legs crossed, fiddling with the hem of your dress, clearly buzzed and completely oblivious to what you had just done to him. To be fair, you didn’t know any better. You were young. Inexperienced. Completely innocent in ways you didn’t even realize.

And Jensen was not. That was the problem. That was why his grip was too tight on the steering wheel. That was why his jaw clenched every time your soft little voice rambled about how manly and strong he was.

Because you didn’t even realize what you were saying. Didn’t realize that any other man your age would’ve jumped at the chance to take advantage of the fact that you were sitting here, flushed and tipsy, calling him sexy without a second thought.

Didn’t realize that the words could break someone in half had sent a sharp, unwelcome pulse straight through him. Because he could. And that was the worst part—because you? You were so damn soft. So untouched. So sweet and nervous and trying so hard to make things right.

And here he was, a man nearly twice your age, trying not to think about how warm you’d felt against him hours ago. How easily you had melted into him when he’d spun you on the dance floor. How your breath had hitched when he touched your waist.

And now, you were sitting there, cheeks pink, babbling in that innocent little voice, so damn unaware of the effect you were having on him.

Jensen swallowed hard. This was not good. Not at all.

Then, your voice cut through the silence. “Are you mad at me?”.

He glanced over, blinking. “What?”.

You bit your lip. “I just… I didn’t mean to make things weird”.

Fuck. That lip.

He forced himself to focus. Shook his head. “You didn’t”.

You still looked guilty, your fingers twisting in your lap. “I just—sometimes I don’t know when to shut up”.

Jensen huffed a laugh, rubbing a hand over his face. “Yeah. I noticed”.

You made a little sound of protest, smacking his arm lightly. “Hey!”.

He smirked, glancing at you again, this time, really looking. You were so young. Too young to be in his car like this, looking at him like that, trusting him completely. And he needed to get his shit together. Fast.

Jensen exhaled. “Relax, kid. I’m not mad”.

You softened. “Promise?”.

His fingers flexed against the wheel. Fuck, you had no idea. But still, he nodded. “Promise”.

And when you smiled, looking relieved, Jensen knew. He had no business feeling the way he did. Because no matter how much your words had messed him up tonight… You were off-limits.

———————————

A/N: Please let me know what you think.🥰 

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Part 2

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Taglist: @blackcherrywhiskey @baby19sthings @suckitands33 @spnfamily-j2 @lyarr24 @deans-baby-momma @reignsboy19 @kawaii-arfid-memes @mekkencspony @lovziy @artemys-ackles @fitxgrld @libby99hb @lovelyvirtualperson @a-lil-pr1ncess @nancymcl @the-last-ry @spndeanwinchesterlvr @hobby27 @themarebarroww @kr804573 @impala67rollingthroughtown @deans-queen @deadlymistletoe @selfdestructionandrhum @utyblyn @winchesterwild78 @jackles010378 @chirazsstuff @foxyjwls007 @smoothdogsgirl @woooonau @whimsyfinny @freyabear @laaadygisbooornex3 @quietgirll75 @perpetualabsurdity @pughsexual @berryblues46 @deanwinchestersgirl8734 @kr804573 @iloveeveryoneyoureamazing @iloveeveryoneyoureamazing @barnes70stark @roseblue373 @shanimallina87 @ascarriel @deanwinchesters67impala @thebiggerbear @quietgirll75 @barnes70stark @kellyls04 @spxideyver @ralilda @americanvenom13 @ozwriterchick @lmg14

[riddlemearose]

you're taller. how fucking dare you.

“Tune!” Link hears someone yell and, even though it’s been almost two years since he’s heard that name said by that voice, he still recognises it on the spot.

He turns, peering around the armful of supplies he’s holding. There’s a young man in green with a familiar blue scarf approaching them at high speed, just barely below a sprint.

“Din’s tits.” Tetra says from beside Link, baffled.

“You’re seeing this too?” Link asks, and sees her nod out of the corner of his eye.

The Captain skids to a stop in front of them, out of breath, and grins as bright as the sun. “Ha! We found you!”

“How in Cyclos’ damned name are you here?” Link replies, awed, all but dropping the equipment in his arms. The closed crates clatter to the ground, missing the toes of his boots by inches.

“L-long story.” The Captain pants. “Holy shit, you both got taller.”

“That is how the passage of time works.” Tetra immediately counters, a smirk on her face.

The Captain snorts, loud and undignified, and shakes his head, studying them both “How long has it been for both of you?”

“About two years.” Link answers, looking him over as well.

It’s hard to tell but he thinks the Captain looks a bit older. Not by much but just enough to suggest that time had passed. And, way more importantly, Link definitely got taller over the past two years! He comes up to the Captain’s shoulders now.

Ha, that’s a clear sign that Link absolutely will outgrow him. That’s what the Captain gets for spending the entire war teasing him and Mask with stupid shit like ‘What’s the weather down there like?’

Well, his fun and games are all over now because Link is definitely going to have the last laugh! 

“The sword is new.” The Captain eyes the Phantom Sword on Link’s back, a displeased frown tugging at the side of his mouth. “Second quest?”

“Second quest.” Tetra agrees with a dismissive wave of her hand. She squints back at him and teasingly points out, “You don’t look that old yet.”

“Thanks.” The Captain rolls his eyes. “Your concern for my life is very touching.”

“Well, you’re not dead at least.” Link offers, already ducking under the Captain’s retaliating swat that's aimed for the back of his head.

Despite his reaction, the Captain still looks fond. Link needs to tease him about that too: Captain Link, tactician and war hero extraordinaire, has gone soft.

“I do need to speak with you for a second, Tune, before he gets here.” There’s an almost tense edge to his voice, which doesn’t exactly bode well given Link’s past experiences with that tone.

Link frowns. “Who are you—”

“Warriors!” A new voice calls. They both turn to see a man striding towards them. He’s older than the Captain with shiny plate armour and interesting tattoos on one side of his face that Link can't quite make out from a distance.

Link squints at him. There’s… something about him, something that pings in the back of Link’s mind.

“Oh boy.” The Captain – Warriors, Link guesses, though that’s a pretty shit name if it’s really what he’s going by – mumbles under his breath, then waves at the man. “Over here, Time! I found him!”

Time’s face brightens – who’s picking these names they’re horrible – as he smiles, stopping beside them. He looks at Link and his smile turns smug. “Tune! I told you I was going to be taller than you.”

What? Link’s nose scrunches up. What the fuck is that supposed to mean?

Warriors smacks a hand to his forehead with a near-silent groan, but says nothing. Link peers up at Time’s face. Shit those tattoos are very vivid. And familiar. Why… does he recognise them?

Wait.

Wait.

He’s seen that pattern before. He knows that pattern, WHAT?!

Link splutters and points an accusing finger at Time, furious. “Mask!? When did you get old?! WHEN DID YOU GET TALL?!”

Mask—Time—whatever-his-name-is throws his head back and laughs, somehow managing to retain that smug grin all the while.

“How do you think I feel?” Warriors grumbles in quiet commiseration, his hand still pressed against his forehead.

“I DON’T CARE ABOUT YOU!” Link yells, waving his hands madly. “HE’S TALLER THAN ME!”

Damn every goddess Link can think of. And he’d just celebrated that he was pretty sure he would be taller than the Captain too WHAT THE FUCK?!

“I’m taller than both of you.” Time agrees cheerfully, still looking way too smug.

Link literally has to glare up at him – fuck, he hates that there’s this much of a height difference, Mask is such a DICK – and crosses his arms. “I hate you. How old are you? You look ancient.”

“Older than you.” Time replies instantly, meeting Link’s gaze head-on and completely ignoring his insult.

Rude. Rude.

Link studies him again, this time from a tactical angle rather than a general glance. He thinks, pondering the scheme forming in his mind over for a moment.

… You know what, yeah. He’s pretty confident that he can easily go for Mask’s knees, just like he used to. Mask looks old enough to have forgotten about that trick.

There will be absolutely no consequences for doing this. Link’s got this in the bag; Mask is gonna feel his wrath.

[ptej1980]

Perception…If you know you know

It has been interesting to watch the different reactions to IG stories and posts over the last week. There is 4 groups of people that I can gather.

1. Lukola strong- Those who are in the know, have done their research do not fall for the smoke and mirrors or misdirection, and have been in it for the long haul. They are critical thinkers, and understand the bigger picture

2. The easily swayed, the jumpers, the unsure and flip floppers that go from ship to ship anytime new story posts come out. Regardless of how little any of it makes sense, no matter how many examples of intimacy and connection Lukola have they have no confidence in what they see or have seen. The drama and trolling seems to be something they enjoy.

3. The Sub fandom zombies who are just regurgitating what they are fed by SM and tabloid trash. They are the current discord zombies who are currently thirsting over pictures of an underage JD 🤮 it is disturbing and creepy, stalker like behaviour led by the red menace.

4. The oblivious- those who have no idea what is going on and do not care. I sometimes envy them. Because when Lukola eventually launch they will enjoy it with out having gone through all the drama . If you look at either social media pages of Nic and Luke as someone who is oblivious you would definitely see a connection between the two of them, and no one else.

I am 💯 sure that if you are reading this you are a number 1 or 4. I hope I haven’t offended anyone but I think at this point it is laughable 🤭

We get pics of Nic and Luke in Adelaide ( yes Lukola FBI I believe in their skills and analysis). Which is then followed up with a chaos week group of stories by Nic.

Her rainbow bestie in Adelaide posting a similar hotel, yep possible same hotel, same room yeh nah…like every thing vague and unconfirmed except his love for his co stars in WIFLFAG.

With 🐜, well she has nothing of interest except 4 pics of the same dress in an empty luxury hotel. The funny thing is the plastic cup on the ground. If she was actually a guest I am guessing the “luxury hotel “ could at least get her a real glass. No sign of any people there of significance, no tags. A shadow of someone who was probably her dad. Nothing. I don’t have to say but if she was actually in a relationship with someone you would think that she could post 1 pic, story, anything but…..no.

I feel like most of us do think that we might be coming to endgame which is really exciting. After Nics stories the stroller pic, Luke’s IG clean out, all the signs are there. I don’t think it is going to be a smooth ride but we have weathered every storm and always come out on top. Ring Truthers unite, until the reveal.

[hope-for-the-planet]

I would like to know your thoughts on the increasing frequency that what is happening to our planet is being described as "climate breakdown" or "climate collapse". I find those descriptions to be far more fear inducing than just saying climate change and I assume that's deliberate for many campaigns who want to show the urgency needed in taking action. However I worry about the accuracy of those words, is it really breakdown and collapse? If so we really should be worried. But it is change, and change that we are learning to mitigate and adapt to, right? So why must they say it is collapse and breakdown. There is also the fact the scariness of those phrases will more likely scare people into inaction rather than action. Just interested to hear your thoughts on this

Hi Anon!

This has been a somewhat controversial issue lately, which I’ll briefly get into the reasons for. I personally prefer to use "climate change" for clarity. I'll warn you in advance that this is going to be another long one.

It’s not inaccurate to call the looming crisis a breakdown or collapse. We are taking action--more than a lot of people think and the speed of change is picking up--but if we did nothing the changes would eventually be beyond our ability to adapt. Climate change will wear away at the systems that maintain consistent and predictable weather, that our housing and agricultural systems are built around, and that preserve vital ecosystems.

We need to avert as much climate change as we possibly can to minimize the human suffering and damage to our world. It is also something we are already adapting to and will continue to adapt to since some warming has already happened. We have solutions for adaptation and more are in the works, but communities that don’t have as many resources to devote to adaptation are already and will continue to be hardest hit by climate impacts.

That being said, there is a lot of argument about whether changing the term to something more urgent actually increases the likelihood of action. A recent study showed that using terms like “environmental breakdown” or “climate crisis” increased emotional responses compared to "climate change", but in some demographic subgroups this increased emotion actually produced a negative backlash reaction. A similar study in Taiwan found that overall the terms "climate crisis" and "climate change" had similar reactions but for some demographic subgroups "climate crisis" negatively impacted perception and action.

Another more recent study found that there was less perception of urgency or importance when using terms other than “climate change” that participants weren't as familiar with. Most people more or less understand what climate change is and what the stakes are—changing the term can just confuse them.

There’s also the issue of crisis fatigue—humans can only spend so long in emergency mode before they will burn out on it. Climate change is something everyone living on earth now will need to deal with for the rest of their life—we need to act urgently but hitting people with “this is an emergency if we don’t act now everyone will die” can actually hurt credibility and buy-in as time passes and the crisis worsens but does not deteriorate into everyone dying. We need sustainable support and action, not surges of panic followed by apathy when the apocalypse doesn’t immediately materialize.

I'm personally a big fan of finding ways to talk about climate change and environmental damage without using politicized buzzwords like "climate" or "environment" since that can sidestep the knee-jerk reaction some people have to those topics--either of identity threat or of fearful shutdown.

So that is my two cents. Climate change is scary enough on its own and turning up the emotional volume of the alarm doesn't necessarily actually translate to more action--like you said it can just make people so fearful that they shut down.

This article does a really good job of covering the many different perspectives in this space:

[litsenn]

This one made me think a lot.

 In EA, you had this dialogue after the first time you dream of the guardian – and in EA, the dream was much more erotic; even if you tried to reject the their advances, they insisted quite a lot which made the dream very awkward and creepy.

I have to says that the fact that the dream visitor took the appearance of Cazador to seduce Astarion makes me deeply uncomfortable.

It’s heart-breaking, and so is his reaction. Obviously, his anger is completely legit if you "joke" about him and Cazador in the bedroom, but the fact that he recoils and snaps at you even if you try to comfort him is really sad. "You try to connect, to let him know he's not alone" and he sees it as "pity".

Honestly, it makes a lot of sense.

I can’t really imagine act 1 Astarion accepting to be comforted like that, and his anger and bitterness fall close to home. Showing any kind of vulnerability feels dangerous, because it’s hard to trust, because he doesn’t want to be seen as “weak” and broken and he believes no one can understand his torment. So any act of kindness is depreciated as the lowest form of pity - perhaps the same kind of pity he feels for his siblings (?).

As for his line when you're mean to him: "You know what separates us from animals? Choice. I choose to travel with you. A dog would do it on instinct. To fulfil a need." It's such a powerful statement! He does have the choice now, and he chose to trust you. He did it out of necessity, but it was still his decision. The comparison with the dog is relevant: Contrary to a dog who follows blindly a master, he can make his own choices (now). He no longer is a mindless animal/puppet.

And as soon as you trample on this trust, he legitimately bites back. And in that situation, he'd let the animal(/monster) in him resurface and kill whoever mistreats him.

It's a powerful, and indeed violent way to set his boundaries, it's Astarion empowering himself and saying "never again or else I'll become the monster Cazador made of me."

Revenge against whoever disrespects him becomes a need.

The fact that he mentions the parallel between choice and instinct is so interesting. Especially if you think about the confession scene in Act 2, when he says seducing you was instinctive. And yet, it was still his choice then (cf. my long post about it here). I find it fascinating that he finds himself reflecting on that specific point: Do I do it because I want it, or because it's instinctive? And what's instinctive (or not) in a "need"?

Anyway, even if the scene itself is no longer relevant now that the dream visitor is different, it's still a heart-breaking and fascinating dialogue for what it says about Astarion's mindset at this point.

[asmodeusamaryllis]

I fear nishi may have accidentally wrote iruma as aroace and only just remembered that she has a main ship she was meant to push

[bunnwich]

have you seen #them and if yes what's your favorite ob animation

Overblot Animation Thoughts (So far)

Unfortunately, I do not usually play on the Japanese server, but for fun, I installed it last night and spedran through Chapters 1 and 2 to see what the animations were looking like! (I need to level up my cards more to beat OB!Leona grrr) Here's what I'll say since I can't share them: (if anyone wants to privately share the other 5, that would be cool!) SPOILER TALK BELOW!

So far, the animations follow a similar pattern: the overblotter holding their face, the blot monster appearing behind, dripping the blot onto them, and consuming them. Then each person is revealed in their OB! outfit. From what was shown, the blot initially is an antagonistic force, but then becomes something they embrace. (I think it's mentioned in either the light novel that Leona was "petting" or "cuddling" his lion-like blot monster post OB) The way it is depicted there is an implication that the blot is a parasite. Which...yeah, it can kill them, so it makes sense, considering it feeds off negative emotions. Seeing it fully animated makes it look quite horrific of a process. And it's interesting how the blot monster just seems to appear behind them. I have to think the animation quality of these clips is what we are getting for the anime, so I am very excited! Overall, they are well done, and we get a bit of screaming/laughingby the VAs. Out of the two I've seen, I have to stay loyal to Savanaclaw and say I was more hyped to see Leonas'. However, I feel Riddle's had some cool shots/imagery. It seems like the main difference between each one will be the method by which the blot "splashes" on the blotters and their subtle reactions to being consumed. With Riddle, the blot monster grabs hold of him and blot leaks slowly on his face, whereas with Leona, it sorta splashes in his eyes and fills his hands. I wonder if there is any correlation in the slight variations to the Disney villain lore or maybe why each person blots. (Leona, for example, being more of an emotional overblot, and Riddles a combination of both, since he used an excess of magic as well.) Leona's struck me. (bc of ofc) So, there is a split second where we see a shadow of the blot monster symbol as a shadow behind them. For Leona, it was a lion head and the way it's done, maybe bc he overblots in a stadium made me think of a spotlight? Like reflecting his desire to be seen maybe?? A similar thing happens with Riddle in teh rose maze, but with Leona, it very much had that "spotlight" look to me. Hmm. ALSO!! There is a small part where Leona reaches his hand up as if to seek something, maybe help or support. Then only for his palm to be filled with blot. OOOOO, just the way it looked, like that got me for some reason?? Like the only thing he feels he has to fall back on is sorrow and anger. But, I love to over-analyze! Anyways, maybe once I see the rest, I can have more to say!

[boyswillbebuggsorsomething]

Moving in Place

Natalie Scatorccio x Fem!Reader

Summary: Wiskayok wasn’t the place for people who were different. Especially not poor, queer freaks like yourself, or girls haunted by ghosts like Natalie. But at least you had each other, and you’d make it out someday. Just a little blurb of Nat and a girlfriend from a similar background.

Warnings: pre-crash, a lot of fluff, inspired by Moving in Place by SDC, reader has an older brother who they live with, reader is coded to be the same sort of burnout-alt kind of person as Nat & her friends from episode one, original male character but he’s really just mentioned in the background, canon typical drug use, underage drinking, underage smoking, Nat’s probably out of character, kinda black cat x golden retriever, crossposted on ao3

A/N: Just a short blurb inspired by one of my favourite songs. Honestly I might continue making fics with these characters, and maybe I’ll even go on to make an extension involving the crash, who knows? Let me know if you’d be interested in that. This was all written in like an hour a week ago and I don’t proofread so this might be written horribly but I think it was done enough that I wanted to post it, so here it is.

Word Count: 1731

…

Tangled in the warmth of your bedsheets, body pressed against your girlfriend, you felt a calm unlike any other. Nat slept better with you, you knew that well, and so despite being an early riser yourself, you let her sleep, content to watch her in her few moments of true relaxation. Gently, you smoothed her hair back from her face as you watched the soft rise and fall of her chest, each breath precious to you. 

You wished she would just stay here forever, never return to the trailer haunted with ghosts of the past and tensions born of mistakes she had no hand in, but logically you knew she’d always go back. It was like she was drawn by some invisible string, tangling her in a web of awful memories and worse treatment, even when escape was less than a two minute walk from that damn cage.

Slowly, you felt her shift as she woke up, blinking sleep from her eyes as she looked up at you.

“G’morning,” You murmured.

“Morning,” Her voice was rough and thick with sleep, and so very beautiful.

“Now that you’re up, I’m gonna go make us some coffee, okay? I’ve been awake for, like, two hours now, and staying this still for any longer might kill me,” You grinned before shoving her off of you, standing with a quick peck to the top of her head. Nat flipped you off, grumbling as she sat up, before pushing her mussed up hair from her eyes. 

“Mhm, love you too,” you hummed before leaving your bedroom.

Your trailer wasn’t big nor well put together in any of the sense of the idea, however, the strange little tin can was nothing if not a truly comfortable home. Wall to wall was decked out in photos and trinkets collected over the years, and while the space was small and cluttered, it didn’t feel hostile. One wrong move wouldn’t set off a chain reaction of rage like you knew so many had grown to expect in their own homes. 

You wove through the cluttered kitchen, grumbling as you pushed your brother’s dirty dishes out of the way of the coffee maker. You loved him, he kept the whole damn place running, but god, James was a fucking disaster when it came to any form of organisation or basic cleanliness. The old coffee machine rattled and groaned each time you used it, begging for a well deserved death that you denied each time you slapped it back to life when it began to give out. It filled the little trailer with the smell of stale coffee - almost enough to cover the constant faint stench of weed, beer, and cigarettes lingering in the trailer - which was sure to draw Nat from her abode in your room, and despite his late shifts, your fiendish brother would demand coffee be made for him too, even if he didn’t wake up until three hours later once it was cold in the fridge. As the coffee maker whirred on in the background, you grabbed mugs from your cabinet, an old stained white one your brother used for everything, one that you think used to be red but had since faded to a strange brownish-orangey-pink that was questionable to look at, and your favourite mug, a chipped up old thing with blue flowers that you got for at a garage sale when you were 12 and had used religiously since.

Once the machine stopped its screaming, alerting you the coffee was done, you poured it out for each person, making it exactly as they liked. You loved days like these, peaceful domesticity where you didn’t have school or work or practice and only had to worry about making food or coffee, or what music to play. It made you feel halfway normal, not like the freak or burnout known at school, or the town queer, but instead as just a girl in love, and in these four walls you didn’t have to hide it, just like any other girl your age, with a family and a life and a future outside of this hellhole. You knew you were far from normal, at least by the standards of a place like fucking Wiskayok, but at least on days like this you felt like you were.

You were drawn from your thoughts as Nat emerged from your room, hair mussed and eyeliner from days of reapplying without ever removing any smudging her eyes. 

“I really oughtta get you some makeup remover of some kind. Or even just a fuckin’ cloth. You’re looking more like a raccoon everyday,” You muttered affectionately, smiling as you handed her the once-red mug.

She grumbled slightly, rolling her eyes as she sipped at the coffee, but she slowly shifted towards you, gravitating towards your body. A goddamn cat, James had called her when he first saw her act like this. You had to agree. There was an old black cat that used to live under your porch when you were a kid, long before ever moving here or meeting Nat, who would slink around and hiss at anyone who got too close, but once you’d offered it food and care, it would stay as close to your side as possible. She reminded you of that cat almost daily, but you’d never tell her that.

The two of you fell into an easy rhythm as you drank your coffees, with you preparing breakfast with the remainder of last week's groceries as Nat helped wash last night’s dishes, music blaring from your little old radio propped up on the counter. After you’d eaten and cleaned, you made it back to your room to get ready. You dressed in an old tank top and a ratty pair of jeans you stole from James, Nat in the same black jeans and striped shirt she wore constantly at your place, rings adorning her fingers and silver chains layered around her neck. She always looked more put together than you, even with choppy hair and day old makeup, and today was no different.

The day passed by slowly, baking in the heat of late spring since the damn A/C broke two months ago and you never got around to fixing it. Not like you had the money to spare, but it was still hell on earth. The trailer didn’t have a TV, never did. Ever since you moved to Wiskayok when you were 11, you had never had anything of the sort in your home. James said it was to keep you creative, force you to do something other than rot your brain, but you’d known even then that TV was expensive in a way you’d never be able to afford, especially with a 16 year old high school dropout as the only source of income. He was right though, it did keep you creative, and thank god for that fact.

You’d practiced on your guitar - one you found on garbage day walking around in a rich area, thrown out just for a couple scuffs and broken strings - until your fingers ached and you’d messed up enough chords that you and Nat were both laughing. James woke up well after lunch, somehow having slept through your playing. He still looked exhausted even after sleeping most of the day away, but a night shift would do that to you. You knew well, having spent most nights over the summer working until ungodly hours at the gas station or the corner store, depending on the day of the week. He left you a pack of cigarettes on the counter before he left for work, grumbling something about how they’d kill you, even though he smoked twice as much as you ever did. He’d do things like that every so often, a pack of cigarettes, some beer or vodka, or weed, thanks for what you did around the house while he was at work. You’d pay him back though, with random trinkets he collected or a book once your paycheck came through.

You let Nat have full control over what music played, knowing her mother was always screaming at her for being too loud if she ever played her music above a whisper pitch. As you cleaned or cooked, the low hum of whatever grunge or punk she’d put on provided some lovely background noise. In the spirit of domesticity, you found yourself prattling on about any nonsense you could think of, and eventually so was Nat, detailing stories from the soccer practices you’d had to miss or parties you’d never gone to. 

Once the hottest part of the day had passed, she dragged you outside to practice some passes or… something. You were never the greatest at sports but you loved her so you went along with it. She was dedicated in a way that her team never seemed to give her credit for, not that they ever thought she was anything but a dedicated player, but Nat had a reputation as a burnout that had a tendency to precede her, worming its way through the crevices in the brain of anyone who met her, leaving them to assume she didn’t care as much as the others. 

By the time the sun was going down, you were sitting out on the steps to the trailer door, passing a cigarette between the two of you. There was a beer balanced between your legs, one sat beside Nat as well, hot air causing the chilled bottles to weep condensation like tears.

“Do you think this is it?” She asked, voice hoarse.

“Hm?”

“This. Wiskayok. Doesn’t it ever feel like we’re just going to be here forever? Like it doesn’t get any better?”

“Fuckin’ existential, huh?” You huffed, taking a sip of your beer, “Nah, it’ll get better. The world just isn’t ready for us yet, so we’re stuck until then, y’know? Then, I don’t know, you’ll go pro, and I’ll get a job that isn’t at a damn gas station, or I’ll start selling crap to those rich fucks who pay premium to live the life of us burnouts they hate so much, and we’ll get outta here.”

“Yeah?” She laughed slightly, a short, hoarse, breathy sound, taking a drag off the cigarette, “Y’think?”

“Mhm,” You leaned your head on her shoulder, sighing softly, “And until then, we’ve always got each other.”

A/N: Thank you for reading! Any and all interactions are appreciated, please let me know if y'all want more of these characters or more similar fics!

[biancasaidstfu]

So, since we’re throwing out theories, here’s mine (similar to some others):

I think there was something between Luke and Nic from the beginning – a pull. I absolutely do not think that they acted on it while involved with other people, but the chemistry was there enough that I think Netflix/Shondaland paid attention, both to use it and to protect it. You see some early pushes (little ones, not to overshadow the leads) of Luke and Nic (especially) such as the interview where she’s asked questions by friends and Luke does one and the magazine spread for season two with the two of them (plus Claudia Jessie and Charithra). Again, these are subtle so they’re going to be showcased with others.

I think the chemistry between the actors as themselves along with the reaction of fans pushed them to season 3, ie, I think part of the reason was that Netflix/Shondaland feared something would happen between the two before their season and either it would end and everyone would be uncomfortable or it would take over as the main story in the media (I mean, look at those two together).

Things definitely get murkier with season three and they definitely get closer. I don’t think they got together before he and Jade were done done, but watching and hearing some of the behind the scenes things, it’s clear that everyone was side-eying the crap out of these two. I feel like they were all waiting for them to suddenly announce that he had broken up with Jade (which I suspect was earlier than it appeared and it was strung out a bit) and was together with Nic. It’s why they were able to use the feelings off each of them to improve their performances.

I think this is where Netflix/Shondaland really began to pay attention closely and started formulating a plan. But again, I think it was that mix of friend/flirting without crossing into dating, still trying to figure things out and decide if it was worth it to try. Lots of moving pieces if things go bad.

It’s after the initial taping has wrapped up that I think they finally took that step. And that’s the point at which I believe Netflix/Shondaland stepped in with the PR plan. I think they worked WITH Luke, Nic, and their teams, but I also believe they are the driving force behind it. We have the whole HBS, which so clearly ended up being auditions for Luke’s PR girlfriend, plus establishes him away from Nic. Nic has Big Mood and Doctor Who and her causes so she doesn’t need to be pulled away as much.

I think they’ve had to adjust this a few times. I don’t think the plan was to make it seem like Nic was in any relationship because she’s always been quiet about that. Luke, on the other hand, had not been. But then reaction to Antonia didn’t go quite the way they expected as some fans started the “Luke chose Antonia over Nic” crap even early on the WT. So, Netflix/Shondaland stepped in to give Nic an implied relationship as well. I believe (and I am sorry!) that the initial plan was for it to be Eamon, but they ended up needing someone with more time on their hands.

Enter Jake, who is already friendly with several of Nic’s friends. I think his accompanying Doug to NYC in the Spring of the WT was his “audition” – not a formal audition as with Luke, but more of a “hey, would you be interested in doing this PR? Here’s what we would need and here’s what you would get in return” kind of thing. I do think they are friends and enjoy being around each other (or this wouldn’t have worked). I waiver on whether there is an NDA here, but I don’t think there was a formal contract as I do think there is one with Antonia.

The WT showed fans and the GA just how spectacular Luke and Nic are together. They are a force. But they would become the story if they came out. Yes, even now. Look how they blew up at SAGs. I think there was some concern for awards, some concern for overshadowing, and a lot of concern that if their relationship blew up that it would affect the show. Would they be professional and not let a messy break-up affect the show? Probably, but if I’m Netflix/Shondaland, I am not taking that chance. They are my cash cow and seem to be the most eager so far to keep the show a priority (this is not a slight to any of the other former leads – most of them have been insanely busy and I would not wish JB to have changed a thing even if it ended up with less Kate/Anthony time). And clearly, Luke and Nic have been doing other projects; they’ve just been able to make it work a little better. Before anyone yells about Simone/Phoebe willing/able to do more, remember it’s a romance show at it’s core and both sides of the couple need to be able/willing to do this. It gets odd after a while (season two with no Simon for example).

So, we have the show, the awards, and the actors themselves all as factors as to why to keep their relationship under wraps. (and possibly that other thing that we don’t talk about) Netflix/Shondaland have the resources to shuffle folks here, there, and everywhere (what’s a few thousand dollars in airfare/hotels compared to them?) and Nic/Luke get to keep their privacy and (in Nic’s case) help some friends out with contacts and publicity.

I think at times any of the four get fed up and that’s when we start getting the weird “games”, but then, Netflix/Shondaland gets them back under control. Or sometimes, they start a narrative and have to pull it back so it looks as if they’re playing games. I think October was setting up for the Luke “break-up”, but the whole NYC thing happened and everything went to hell. So, Luke and Antonia went completely silent versus a “break-up”. I think January was setting up for the Nic “break-up” but then there were more award nominations so that fell silent.

I don’t think any of these were going to be formal break-ups, just seeing less of the PR folks because no need to formally break-up if you haven’t formally been together.

Then SAGs hit. Oh, SAGs. There was no controlling these two and there will be no controlling these two so back to the PR it is. Throw in the lackluster reaction to everything leaked so far for season 4 (except Polin’s baby name) and Netflix/Shondaland is going to get gun shy again. Back to PR.

If things calm down, I think we may finally get the non-break-up break-ups this year. Nothing shown can’t be explained by friendship (even the awkward Luke/Antonia kiss). I think Netflix/Shondaland will continue to ask them to keep things private and will work with them for this to happen because again, potential messy break-up, lackluster season four response, overshadowing the show and they will continue to do the PR/hidden relationship because it gives them privacy and allows them to grow separately as actors.

I’m sure that I’ve missed parts or screwed things up, but this is my general idea of this whole situation. So, unless there is a slip-up, I’ve gotta go with the 2026 anon. I think they may be allowed to go back to at least being around each other if they need to drum up season 4 excitement, but not shown as together (this is gonna take a dance because, well, Luke). If it does end up drumming up excitement, then we may get them announcing their relationship after the Netflix 90 days viewing numbers is over or Netflix/Shondaland may get shy again. We shall see.

Gary, if I'm on the right track at all, post me some white flowers this weekend. :D

All of this making me realize we really might be waiting another calendar year

[noazhere]

This is not a one time thing, it has happened multiple times and not only since he's been an adult, but since he's been a teenager too.

Media has good opinion about him. Everyone knows he's kind; when they search him for any interview or opinion about anything that is trending or that it involves his family, he doesn't act self-important or better than them as most people would think for the ward son of Bruce Wayne, Gotham's prince. He's charismatic, charming, polite and always gets some laughs indistinctly of who's he with.

But they had long since discovered that he doesn't like some specific kind of questions. At first it was noticeable that the teenager wasn't expecting them, or was even a bit uncomfortable by them, but he would end up playing along while laughing them off. As time went on and years passed though, his reactions started to change to unbothered and straightforward answers. "Is that news? I'm handsome, we know it, anything else?" And so more similar.

This make that any time a reporter or an interviewer that tells him about what other people think about him, or what they said about him, he makes it obvious that he couldn't care less. Thus, news but overall social media, tend to criticize him every time he responds like that, they call him "arrogant", "presumptuous", "conceited" and more. Which, honestly? The first time it made him roll his eyes because just last week he was being called friendly and warm; how Gotham missed him and how he should come 'home' more often. Bunch of hypocrites, but what could he expect from Gotham, he guesses.

I like to think that as more time passes, he's less friendly and loses his patience towards those kind of questions. Doing things as just ignoring them and walk them off as if they had never even talked to him, because that's better than taking out his frustration on someone. Because he's done a lot of things for these cities, and in general, even ignoring that he's Nightwing, he's done a shit tone in his life. He hears interviewers talking to his brothers and they get such an interesting questions, would it be about WE, asks and shows of interest about their lives (not only love-lives), opinions on whatever is going on in the world at the moment and just normal talks that involve their rational thinking instead of gossips, what other people said about you, your body or your face.

And he knows it's stupid to get upset about it, even more considering how these days those questions aren't as common as they used to be, but he is sometimes still upset. And he knows he's not "guilty" or something, but sometimes, just sometimes, he finds himself thinking that maybe if he didn't went along with it when he was a kid, maybe people would have left it there. Maybe people wouldn't comment so often about his smile, his muscles, his dimples or his ass. Maybe. Maybe that's why he gets worked up when he hears interviewers talking to his brothers about their physique. Maybe that's why he takes control over their talk and centrates it on himself, even if he would prefer burying himself alive rather than continuing with the conversation he's having with a big faux smile. Maybe.

do u think dick knows he's like pretty but he stopped caring because mostly civilians and some heroes that don't know nightwing just focus on the fact he's attractive specially in his teens like that one audio "you're beautiful. thank you and what else? what else? it is beauty all that matters to you?"

I can see Dick getting desensitized to being called pretty or attractive.

Maybe he's being interviewed and someone asks him about how so many people have called him attractive or put him on a list of some sort of the hottest celebrities, etc. and Dick just stares at them and asks, "Is that news? Typical Tuesday for me. Anything else?" But he doesn't let them even ask another question before he turns and walks away to the next reporter.

[zivazivc]

Could you tell us about Scoria please 🥺❤️❤️❤️

Yes!! I'm happy she piqued your interest! She's a side character but she's one of my better fleshed-out ones and she is my miserable problematic babygirl who plagues me.

Scoria was Leslie’s closest and only friend from when he still lived in the Rock Kingdom. They were neighbors in the loosest sense of the word, their village is so thinly settled and they live in the outskirts of even that, so next door neighbors isn’t really a thing for them. But they lived fairly close to each other, let’s say five minutes apart by foot. They met before they were old enough for school, so they initially became friends because they were the only kids their age in their area. But even after starting school and getting classmates they stayed practically inseparable.

Which wasn’t easy because Leslie immediately became the bullied black sheep of the school, while Scoria became one of the most liked kids between her peers and teachers. But Scoria is a Punk Troll and the punk ideologies are kind of ingrained into her blood, so any of her classmates’ attempts in getting her to turn on Leslie fell short. She was his protector and spokesperson, and was ready to intervene at the sight of any bullying, even physically. She was very blunt and vocal about any injustices in general, no matter who it was about.

In one sense her friendship with Leslie was what kept her out of the “cool kid” circles, but in another her disinterest in selling out and following the herd is what made her seem so cool to her classmates.

But after Leslie disappeared, she wasn’t the same. No one actually knew for sure what happened to him and Hedley (if they ran away or something else more tragic happened) and that whole event deeply traumatized Scoria. What happened as well as everyone’s reaction to it. Over time she became angry and frustrated and miserable, and she emotionally cut herself off from everyone. Her whole life and personality subconsciously started to revolve around this one event that she can’t put behind her.

I wrote a little character analysis, to try and portray what she is like now as a young adult as well as some backstory. (first proper ex bandmates fic, yay!) You can read it here:

I do plan to have her and Les run into each other at one point during the band days, but I’m not yet sure how that will play out. It would definitely shake Scoria’s whole reality, but I don’t know… There would be a lot of hurt that would need to be addressed and I don’t think Les would be willing to talk about it at that point in time… Oh boy :(

[donvampiro]

Can we get a Sabo with a s/o that doesn’t understand his humor as easily as others. Not in the ‘I can’t take a joke’ way but in the neurodivergent way like ‘wait- what’s wrong with my hair? You said you like it like this l-…OOOOOH I GET IT NOW. Okay yeahh that’s funny-‘ but sometimes the joke processing can take a few seconds to a few hours too. The reader and social undertones sometimes just do not get along-

hello Anon! brooo this is just so suitable for Sabo somehow?? i love it omg. hope these lil HCs will meet your expectations! :) thanks a lot for your request. Love <3

@pure-kirarin take ur sabotonin its time

MASTERLIST - Welcome

***

'Flop'

Sabo x (neurodivergent) gn!reader

whether you’re neurodivergent or neurotypical, it would never make much difference to Sabo, as long as you’re being yourself. besides, your atypicality — whatever its nature — would pose no problem for him. Sabo’s a man who is curious about different ways of thinking, patient with those he likes, eager to know what interests you and what doesn’t. no matter what happens, he’ll always try to understand you, to try to know what the world looks like through your eyes.

however, that doesn’t mean he wouldn’t be confused at first when he realizes you’re not very receptive to his jokes. your smile is so dear and precious to Sabo, every opportunity to make it happen shouldn’t be wasted. your happiness means a lot to him. so, he makes a point of trying to make you laugh... but for some reason, he flops a lot — which doesn’t fail to make Koala burst out laughing btw. his embarrassed expression is just priceless.

‘ugh, this book is quite gory!’, you cringed, closing the book in question as you showed Sabo the cover. ‘can you imagine?! one of the characters has lost the entire left side of their body…!’

— ‘oh yeah?’, he raised his eyebrows in astonishment, though the ghost of a mischievous smile lingered on his lips. ‘guess they’re alright now.’

you stared at him in confusion, frowning. his tone didn’t sound serious — was he joking? but there was nothing very funny about being cut in half…? he didn’t sound too unserious either. joke, not joke? it was hard to tell.

— ‘what do you mean “alright”? have you lost your mind? their body is cut in two!’

— ‘n-no, (y/n), i mean “alright” like they’re “all right” now, you see? since they don’t have a left side anymore.’, he chuckled nervously, still smiling, but painfully adding a new flop to his list.

you rolled your eyes, sighing through your nostrils.

— ‘you’re weird, Sabo.’ was the only thing you replied, leaving him mortified as you went back to your book.

sitting further back in the room, Koala genuinely thought she should clip every single one of Sabo’s reactions during these kinds of interactions.

if you can, please explain the situation to him. Sabo will never judge you. just let him know. tell him about any difficulties you may have understanding certain humorous traits; otherwise poor top-hat guy will overthink it and believe he’s being annoying and making your life hell with his lame jokes and puns.

‘is my sense of humor really that bad, Koala?’, he’d pout, slumped against the table in a defeated expression.

— ‘yes, it is’, she’d confirm nonchalantly while reading the newspapers, not really paying attention to the blond’s lament; which immediately made him raise his head.

— ‘hey, you’re supposed to comfort me!’, he’d groan, but all his dismay would soon fade away as he’d hear you giggling a few steps away, approaching him. Sabo would quickly readjust himself in his seat, flashing you a smile and showing himself to you in his best light, as if he hadn’t just been whining for minutes. ‘oh, (y/n)! what’s up? you seem in a good mood.’

— ‘i was just thinking–’, you’d grin, before shrugging casually. ‘what you said yesterday was kinda funny! i mean, the “alright” thing.’

he probably wouldn’t remember exactly everything he said yesterday. but damn, he’d be soooo happy and giddy to know you think he’s funny. no matter how long it would take. for your smile and laughter, Sabo’s ready to wait all the time in the world. Sabo’s ready to flop, over and over, if there’s still the little possibility that you might smile at his nonsenses at some point. you have time. don’t rush, it’s okay.

Sabo will always take the time to explain his jokes so that you can try to understand them too, even when he’s in public. he also tries to help you as best he can so that, little by little, you progress on this subject. nothing makes Sabo prouder than when you can understand a joke — whether it’s his or not — on the first try.

[thelovelywriteress]

NERO AND HIS GIRLFRIEND𓂃 ࣪˖ ཐིཋྀ

Silly and random headcannons for my boy, which may or may not make sense 😭 so read at your risk!

Ever since you realised how much of lonely childhood Nero had and how he thought he did not deserve good things, you made it your goal to make him feel loved every moment for rest of his life.

Through you have good intentions, Nero initially started to think there was something wrong with you, as suddenly you couldn't keep your hands to yourself anymore if he was in same room as you.

"Whatever it is─never let your weapon or focus down." Nero explained to children in orphanage as it was obvious many of them was joining Order in future and he wanted to give them some advice as it feels good to be admired.

"Hey there pretty boy!" You exclaimed with happiness as you hug him from behind, making his face flushed and definitely his guard along weapon down.

Nero tried to prey you off from him as he felt the stare of children, seeing him contrary his words as you just harden your grip around him, making sure your affection and love reaches him.

"Do we got a beautiful girl hugging us too?" One of kid asked in aw as you let out suppressed laugh─snort.

"If we are strong, do you give hug to us too sister?"

Children were now more interested on how to get you more than whatever Nero was teaching them. Nero look at the scene─feeling annoyed how attention was taken from him and how these brat thinks they can have you too.

"Find someone for yourself. She is mine."

He pulled you to his chest as his hand claims place on your head. Safe to say everyone including you was completely in aw. Damn when did your boyfriend got so bold?

Kids were more sharped than you both expected. They quickly understood you both got something going on and exactly what you have going on as they corner you both with various questions. Definitely more excited and engaged than whatever Nero was initially was teaching them.

"So you hold hands?"

"You sleep together?"

"You feed each other?"

"YOU KISS EACH OTHER?"

With each question they cornered you more and more as they finally ask you to kiss each other to prove your relationship.

"The hell we proving yourself to you?" Nero throw him an annoyed glare through you have opposite reaction as you were acting all blushing and shy, mumbling it is something you guys really needed to do for your relationship.

"Did you finally turn crazy?" He asked his vien popping out as you give him a flirtatious smile before wrapping arms around him and almost pushing a kiss on flustered Nero.

Sadly kissed was stopped by Kyrie who scold you for being pushy and pointed at poor Nero who was vigoursly fan himself to cool down his warm face.

"Don't tease him. You know he isn't much for affection in public." She gently reminded you and took the kids, who were complain about not seeing kiss, so you guys could continue on private.

"Try to do push these things on me again and see what happens." Nero warn you but he didn't missed that mischievous look in your eyes. Things were just starting.

Now Nero loved you very much and wouldn't give you for anything but these days you were getting really out of hands─especially in public, you would just barely lay your eyes on him and next moment you would be either clinging to his arm or hugging him.

You would hesitate to call him your boyfriend in front of others, which he kinda likes but won't say but sometimes boyfriend just kinda get overused.

"Hey there didn't notice you because my eyes only focused on my boyfriend."

"Yeah and then my boyfriend said─I shouldn't and I was like boyfriend─I am fine. But boyfriend didn't took me seriously then boyfriend──"

Nero would be lying tho if he said he hated all the attention tho. The way you prioritize him, made him so happy but he was sad that he couldn't match your enthusiasm in relationship.

Nero, who was before, was still used get embarrassed in private too now was getting clinging. Always holding you and giving you random pecks on cheek as it was his way of showing he loves as same. He even started to hold your hands in public on his own.

"Whoa Nero─e-enough." You said in between the giggles that left your mouth as Nero keep on kissing you around the face.

Bro turned into some kinda animal who just wanted to cuddle you. He even started to bite you as you give him such a cute aggression. In private, he don't want to do anything just cuddle with you, with you telling him how you adore him. It gives him so much contentment.

"Aren't mosquitoes eating you too much these days?" Kyrie humoured on your reasoning for bite marks as you felt your cheeks warming. Is that how Nero felt when you used to be clingy with him in public?

When you thought your boyfriend wouldn't make your heart do more flips, he pulled the boldest stunt which made you sure that you never want to let go of him.

You were both were exploring the island (which initially was Nero fighting with the demons but then you followed him and forced him tag along).

Nero keep on reminding you how dangerous the forest would be and how easy it would be for demons to you guys but ask him to chill, saying how you believe your knight in armour will protect you to which Nero let out an annoyed huff. Yes he would definitely protect you, even with his own life but it doesn't mean you could be reckless.

You come across a high tree and competed who can reach the top first, in which of course Nero won and you pout but he keep his confident smile as enjoying seeing you mad.

"Whoa you can see whole Fortuna from here!" You exclaimed as you and both observe the town. Pointing at various places and identifying them.

"Oh and that's the church where marriages happens." Nero highlighted as you nodded along,"Hopefully one day ours too." You mumbled in flow but it reach Nero's eyes who give you an suprised look.

His reaction made you realised your words and embarrassing they were asking you quickly start to explain how you didn't meant what you meant─life is short and it's not like marrying him was your only goal of life through you wouldn't mind but OF COURSE it still got time and m-maybe you guys won't be even together in future. You keep on speaking but Nero cut you off saying how it wasn't like he was against the marriage and he DEFINITELY DO NOT want a future where you guys aren't together.

"It's just I was surprised that you hold such a deep feelings for me that you even imagined our marriage." He confessed rubbing back of his head.

"It's not like I do that on daily basis. . .it just come out in flow of conversation." You mumbled feeling flustered.

"But I do not want you to think I am against it." He started again as your cheeks started to get visible red, you didn't even thought that,"Yeah I get it─" You were cut off as he put his hands on your shoulder,"I don't know what kind of future this island filled with all this demon killing holds for us but I still want to be by your side. To give you best and see you forever smiling."

Your face was in aw hearing his words, how sincere and geniune they were. It was like he was doing some confession you remarked to which's response he turn around in embarrassment, stating how his confession can't be this lame.

"Well, well don't be embarrassed now. I like that confession─or whatever it was. So you can kiss me as a reward."

He gave a hesitate look, before leaning in and kissing you on lips.

"How rude!" You slapped him in angry.

You meant on cheeks. He can't kiss an unmarried girl on cheeks. He retorted back with how much close you guys are from cuddling to even kissing at other parts of face is lips where you drew the line? Hypocrite.

"Oh yeah." You mumbled, looking down. Realising with how much physical contact you guys shared, this kiss practically meant nothing,"But it still don't make it right. I didn't give you the consent." You continue on hit his face which he shield with his arms.

You were just weird girl. You bathe him in affection in public and private but one kiss from him in private turn such a big thing.

He is pretty sure more than consent, it was about your suprise. You never thought he could kiss on lips, atleast not this randomly. Guess this marks a point for him tho. He is going do all sorts of things out random from now just to see your cute reaction.